This topic is about managing excessive gas for someone with an ileostomy. The person is dealing with a lot of gas build-up in their ileostomy pouch, which inflates frequently, becomes noisy, and is hard to hide. They even have to wake up at night to release the gas, fearing the pouch might burst. They are seeking practical solutions to reduce or vent the gas. Here are some helpful tips and advice:

- **Venting and Pouch Tips**
- "Burp" the pouch whenever it starts to harden to prevent it from breaking the seal.
- If filters clog quickly, consider switching brands or adding a separate vent. Companies like Hollister, Coloplast, and ConvaTec offer free samples. The Osto EZ-Vent is an add-on vent that allows you to release gas on demand.
- A two-piece system can be useful as it allows you to change only the pouch when its filter stops working.

- **Medications and Products**
- Simethicone anti-foaming remedies can help gas move out more easily, though they don't reduce the total amount of gas.
- Bean-O, taken with meals, can limit gas from beans and certain vegetables.
- If experiencing an itchy rash, antihistamines like Benadryl might help, but it's best to consult a doctor.

- **Dietary Strategies**
- Keeping a food diary or trying an elimination diet can help identify gas triggers. For some, removing wheat/gluten significantly reduced gas.
- Common gas-inducing foods include carbs (like pasta and bread), certain vegetables (like broccoli and cabbage), beans, carbonated drinks, and dairy.
- Eating earlier in the evening and not skipping meals can help reduce night-time gas.

- **Eating and Drinking Habits**
- Avoid using straws, squeezing bottles while drinking, chewing gum, and talking while chewing to reduce swallowed air.
- Eat slowly and chew thoroughly.

- **Safety Notes**
- Be cautious with popcorn, as it can cause blockages.
- Watch for allergic reactions from adhesives, foods, or medications, and seek medical advice if they persist.

- **Lifestyle Observations**
- It's common for many with an ileostomy to get up 1–3 times per night to empty or vent the pouch.
- Lean proteins, plenty of water, and certain spirits like Jack Daniels were noted to produce minimal gas for some.

By trying different pouches and filters, adding vents, using simethicone or Bean-O, adjusting diet, and minimizing swallowed air, many have found relief from excessive gas and reduced nightly interruptions.